The Rockets finished 2017-18 with a 65-17 record and advanced to the Western Conference Finals, where they fell to the Warriors in seven games. Harden told reporters this weekend he's looking forward to building on Houston's success.

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"I'm excited for the journey," Harden said (via USA Today's Rocketswire). "Last year was an amazing journey, obviously the journey didn't end how we wanted to, but the journey is what makes the teams great and it's what will make that story even better.

"I'm excited for that process. From training camp, even from summer time, hanging out with the guys, doing regular stuff when we actually have time to do it, traveling with the guys ... last year was kind of thrown onto us, but this year, it's a lot more settled in."

Carmelo Anthony agreed to a deal with the Rockets earlier this month after he received a buyout from the Hawks.

Anthony, a 10-time All-Star, was traded from the Thunder to Atlanta in exchange for guard Dennis Schroder in late July. He hit just 40.2 percent of his shots and averaged a career-low 16.2 points per game during his one season with Oklahoma City in 2017-18.

Harden said he believes Anthony will help Houston.

"Bringing Carmelo in is going to be a good fit for us," Harden said.

The Rockets have reportedly inquired about a potential deal for Cavaliers guard JR Smith. They are also interested in acquiring Hawks wing Kent Bazemore, according to multiple reports.